794A.00/9–250: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in China
264. Re urtel 339 Sept 2. FonMin’s memo was apparently effort Chi Govt obtain long-term commitments from US Govt re Formosa. [Page 515] You will know from previous msgs that position Dept in present circumstances must be tentative particularly in view fact question Formosa already before UNSC and will be presented UNGA. US Govt therefore patently not in position enter into long-term commitments even if it so desired. Also as previously noted Nat Govt can be assured that our belief is UN offers best channel for peaceful, just solution problems centering on Formosa. It is by UN procedures that there wld best be handled matter of any attack on Taiwan, that is, questions relating maintenance peace, security West Pacific. Dept will endeavor support what it considers rights of Nat Govt in this general connection but is obviously unable as well unwilling now make formal unilateral commitment along desired lines. It is envisaged that UN itself might find it possible and appropriate continue with concept neutralization pending final resolution of indicated problems.
Since situation far from crystallized Dept does not contemplate formal reply Chi memo at this time. Refer you to Deptel 237 Sept 13 as well for background material for any discussions between you and FonMin re questions raised Chi memo.